TNAG-0099-FCO40-135-Visit-by-Secretary-of-State-1967 — Page 40

CONFIDENTIAL

that the Chinese would regard these reforms as a

first step towards full democratic self-government,

but the reactions would have to be carefully

watched.

B. MEETING WITH UNOFFICIAL MEMBERS OF

EXECUTIVE AND LEGISLATIVE COUNCILS

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The following points were raised by the

Unofficials.

(i)

Constitution The Secretary of State

confirmed that there was no question of

elections to the Legislative Council

though he warned that continued public

criticism must be expected.

(ii) E.E.C.

The Secretary of State explained

the present position and gave an assurance

that Hong Kong's interests would be fully

taken into account and the Hong Kong

Government fully consulted if Britain

decided to negotiate.

(iii) Defence The Secretary of State said

that no final decision had yet been taken

in relation to reducing the garrison;

any reductions would be small. The

Unofficials thought there should be no

withdrawal of troops in the immediate

future because they were under criticism

for agreeing to an increased financial

contribution.

(iv) Governorship The Unofficials asked for

an extension of Sir David Trench's term

of office. A fuller note has been

recorded separately.

CONFIDENTIAL

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